A flavorful and simple Easy Mexican Rice recipe made with tomatoes, spices, and fresh herbs. This versatile dish is perfect as a side or base for your favorite Mexican meals, from tacos to enchiladas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple and Quick: With minimal prep and under 40 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of tomato sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and fresh cilantro ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Customizable: Add veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Great for Meal Prep: This rice stores and reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.
Perfect Pairing: Complements a wide range of Mexican dishes or works as a standalone side.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and stir continuously for 5–7 minutes, or until the rice is lightly golden.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in the chicken or vegetable broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then stir in the chopped cilantro.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm as a side dish or alongside your favorite Mexican entrees.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or extra chili powder for more heat.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Include diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added texture and flavor.
Brown Rice: Substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice; adjust cooking time accordingly.
Herb Alternatives: Swap cilantro with parsley if preferred.
Cheesy Option: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese after cooking for a creamy twist.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Transfer cooled rice to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
Related Recipes:
- Homemade Mexican Rice
- Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce
- Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet (Ready in 30 Minutes!)
FAQs
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?
I recommend using a non-stick skillet and stirring the rice frequently when toasting it in oil.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
What can I serve with Mexican rice?
I like pairing it with tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or even as a base for burrito bowls.
Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
You can, but the texture and cooking times will vary. Follow the package instructions for best results.
Conclusion
Easy Mexican Rice is a flavorful, versatile dish that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. Whether served as a side or the star of your meal, it delivers a hearty, satisfying taste of Mexican cuisine. Try it tonight and elevate your dinner game.
📖 Recipe:
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Easy Mexican Rice
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy this easy Mexican Rice recipe! Packed with tomatoes, spices, and fresh herbs, it’s a flavorful side dish perfect for tacos, enchiladas, or burrito bowls. Ready in just 35 minutes!
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup tomato sauce
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ cup frozen peas (optional)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add rice and toast, stirring for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Mix in broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until rice is tender.
- If using peas, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Stir in cilantro, season with salt and pepper, and serve.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeño or extra chili powder.
Substitute brown rice for white rice; adjust cooking time as needed.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 190 kcal
